Himeji Castle stands as the best preserved example of Medieval castle
architecture in all of Japan. It stands as a monument not only to the craftsmanship
of the builders but also to the Japanese concept of harmony between man
and nature. In fact it derives it name White Egret Castle partly from the
fact that it appear as a bird ready for flight. The craftsmen,
particularly those under Terumasa's reign, were able to transform
the basic elements of nature -- stone, wood, and water -- into a refined and elegant structure. The
incorporation of a residence and a military compound into a structure of enduring physical
beauty suggests that not only is the integration of man and nature advantageous,
but it can also be a better way of life.